Frango, Bella Vista

8.30 on a Saturday night, Frango's was packed. Tables were full and the takeaway line was nearly out the door. Wanting to try their more extensive menu, we decided to wait for a table which took about 20 minutes.

For entree, we ordered the Marinated Calamari with wine, lemon and olive oil. The calamari was succulent and coated in a very flavoursome dressing. It reminded me very much of a similar dish I had in Lisbon. 

Marinated Calamari with wine, lemon and olive oil $17

Cod Fish and Tomatoes with sliced hand cut potato $27

We also ordered the Cod Fish and Tomatoes with sliced hand cut potato. I love the texture of cod fish which is quite meaty but the star of this dish actually turned out to be the hand cut potato chips. With crispy edges and a soft centre, they were a great alternative to normal french fries. Accompanied by the homemade chili mayo, they were even more moreish. 

Wanting to save room for dessert, we ordered only a quarter serving of their famous Portugese charcoal chicken. Crispy skin and succulent meat - can't ask for much more than that. And it went wonderfully with my glass of Portuguese red ($7).

Portuguese Charcoal Chicken - Quarter $6

For dessert, we got the Creme Caramel and the Portuguese tart. The creme caramel was wonderfully silky and the coconut shavings was a nice addition. I would have preferred the Portuguese tart to have been served hot and it was a little too sweet for me.

Crème Caramel $6

Portugese Tart $3

Frango's also has branches in Petersham and Smithfield.